Books Win! Competitions The WWII Thrilling Merlin DVDS up Forces' magic for grabs favourite Friday July 24 2020 No 1496 70p paper ● See p17 ● See RnR ––

CAS on future air

See power and the p14 to cyber threat p15 Rugby Union Charging to new levels UK must win new info war Simon Mander AIR CHIEFS have been urged to move from combat jets to cyber tech to beat tomorrow’s enemies. Defence Secretary Ben Wallace urged the RAF to learn ● Sport p26 from recent Turkish and Russian campaigns in Syria and Ukraine ahead of the next Defence Review. Football Speaking at the Air and Space Power Conference, UKAF man's delivered virtually due to Covid restrictions, the former Army in gear now officer said: “Today we’re facing coronavirus, tomorrow it could be a high-level cyber strike. “Our adversaries now wear many masks. They know we’re dependent on information technology. “They know globalisation makes us more vulnerable. So, there’s a danger our competitors will use proxies and new technologies to outflank us.” He said lessons could be learned from Turkey, which used Bayraktar TB2 UAVs to destroy command and control nodes PRINCE CHARLES shares a and two transport joke with RAF new recruits aircraft at the after attending a Queen’s Libyan National Colour Squadron graduation Army-controlled parade at Cranwell. PHOTO: PA Jufrah airfield in ● Sport p23 July. ● Cont p3 We are excellent. We are QE.

The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) has found Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate to be ‘Excellent’ across all schools, praising our pupils’ outstanding academic achievements and personal development.

Queen Ethelburga’s has a long-standing relationship with the British Forces, welcoming students from military families for over 100 years. We currently have over 300 such students living as part of the QE family. We welcome day students from 3 months to 19 years and boarders from 6 years to 19 years. We are CEA accredited and in recognition of our commitment to Forces families, we offer a significant reduction in fees. In 2017/18 this meant that our Forces families paid just 10% of fees. In 2018/19 Forces families will pay just £955 per term, per child (with the benefits of Childcare Vouchers this figure can be as low as £614 per term). We pride ourselves on our wrap-around specialist pastoral care for our students, providing a secure and supportive home from home. We are focused on creating the right learning and living environment so that every one of them can thrive. Q For further information or to arrange a visit contact our admissions team on: Tel: 01423 33 33 30 Email: [email protected] News Friday, July 24, 2020 P3

It is our duty to ensure our We have to be more Harlots professional, those in top jobs have Armed Forces have the best brings 18th conditions possible to be accountable “ ” century“ “ ” Chancellor London to WO Tug Rishi Sunak life Wilson on announcing a ” the shake- £200m scheme The up within to revamp BBC’s Sue Service Service homes Deeks on rugby union p5 the period p26 drama starring Lesley Manville R’n’R p4-5 UK Forces cyber threat MoD confirms l continued from front FUTURE AIR POWER: The new pay deal The Erdogan regime has also Tempest sixth-generation aircraft deployed lightly-armed drones which will replace Typhoon is MILITARY PERSONNEL are and smart ammunition in Syria to currently under development to receive an inflation-busting stop tanks, armoured cars and air two per cent pay rise this year. defence systems. The increase means starting According to reports, the Assad salaries will rise by £545 for regime lost 3,000 soldiers, 151 Officers, £634 for a Corporal tanks, eight helicopters, three and £400 for a newly-trained drones, three fighter jets, eight soldier, sailor or airman or aerial defence systems and one woman. RAF News headquarters in the offensive. Basic pay for other ranks on Room 68 “Even if only half of these claims completion of initial training Lancaster Building are true the implications are game will now be £20,400 and the HQ Air Command -changing,” said Mr Wallace. average salary for a Corporal High Wycombe According to defence analysts will be £32,797. Buckinghamshire used electronic warfare to Personnel will see the HP14 4UE jam communications, locate and 2020/21 rise in their September target troops with artillery, turn pay packets, backdated to Editor: Simon Williams Ukrainian tech against their own they are developing hypersonic “That’s why, in the future, what’s April 2020. Email: [email protected] operators, and send out false GPS glide vehicles. We know UAVs and above you will be often more The award comes in and texts to individual soldiers. deep strike pose us a lethal threat. important than what’s in front of addition to the non- Sports Editor: Daniel Abrahams He said Britain needed to be as “We know increasing numbers you,” said Mr Wallace. contributory pension and Email: [email protected] nimble as its rivals at using machine of actors have the ability to hit us “Hiding and finding will be at access to incremental pay Tel: 07966 429755 learning, artificial intelligence with precision and at range,” he the centre of tomorrow’s battlefield. progression. and quantum computing as he said. If you can be found, you can be Defence Secretary Ben Features Editor: Tracey Allen announced a £65 million contract He added Russia and China killed. Wallace said: “Over the past Email: [email protected] for the first Protector aircraft to are developing offensive space “That requires a rebalancing three years, Service personnel replace the Reaper platform. weapons to hit satellites providing from Industrial Age to Information have received pay rises News Editor: Simon Mander “Our opponents are constantly global communications, critical Age capabilities – investing in totalling seven per cent which seeking to go higher, faster and intelligence, surveillance, cyber, space, electronic warfare, AI, has helped Defence attract and All advertising: further. navigation and national robotics and autonomy – coupled retain the best people for the Edwin Rodrigues “We know they’ve got infrastructure from mobile phones, with their integration with the best Armed Forces.” Tel: 07482 571535 thermobaric weapons. We know to cashpoints, to the stock market. of what already exists.” Email: edwin.rodrigues@rafnews. co.uk

Subscriptions and This Week In History distribution: JPI Media Print Holdings Ltd 1981 26 Whitehall Road Chinook arrives Leeds LS12 1BE 18 Sqn is reformed at RAF Odiham Tel: 020 7855 7574 in Hampshire as the first RAF Email: [email protected] heavy lift unit equipped with the Chinook HC1.

1946 First UK ejection test 1995 Extracts from The UK’s first live ejection test The Royal Air is carried out by pilot Bernard Harrier deployed to Balkans Force Day By Lynch, who fires a Martin-Baker 12 Harrier GR7s operated by 4 Sqn are deployed to Day by Air Cdre Graham seat fitted to a Meteor flying at Gioia del Colle in southern Italy on ground attack and Pitchfork (The 8,000ft at a speed of 320mph. reconnaissance missions against Serbian targets in Bosnia. History Press) SUPPORTING SERVING AND FORMER MEMBERS OF THE RAF AND THEIR FAMILIES

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News

BROTHERS IN ARMS: AC Jessie, left, with Charlie after his older brother’s graduation parade. Below, combat training at Honington PHOTO: SAC JAMES Go with LEDGER the bro

Vikki Quamina same day his brother graduated, Honington was able to join him to celebrate after Regiment chiefs relaxed the AC JESSIE Fitch had his sights current rules on relatives attending set on a career with the Royal the parade. Marines – now he’s following in Charlie added: “The phase one big bro Charlie’s bootsteps and training is a tough course and training to be an RAF Gunner. I’m proud to graduate. I’ve given Charlie has just graduated him some advice about how to get after 20 tough weeks of combat through it. training with the Regiment while “I told him that if he does Jessie has just started the course what he’s told when he’s told to at Honington. do it he’ll do great. Charlie said: “Jessie wanted to “Mum was a bit worried when join the Marines but I had a word we both joined up but she and dad with him and he soon changed are now both proud as punch.” his mind and followed me into the RAF.” ● See p19 for latest Gunners Jessie, who turned 18 on the graduation news.

News bulletin Forces families to get £200 million housing makeover duty to ensure they have the best Staff Reporter conditions possible. THOUSANDS OF Forces families’ “This news doesn’t just mean homes are to be revamped under a Service homes across the country £200 million programme unveiled will be upgraded, but will see 2,000 by Chancellor Rishi Sunak. jobs in sectors where they are As part of the housing pledge needed the most, like plumbing 3,500 homes and single living and decorating.” Wills Sea King quarters will be given a makeover The funding pledge follows a which will include new kitchens four-year, £530-million investment up for adoption and bathrooms. programme to upgrade Service New roofing will be installed to family accommodation. LUCKY CHARM Twinkletoes properties to reduce the risk of The MoD is currently carrying and the Sea King flown by the mould and damp along with out pilot studies under the Duke of Cambridge are up for new windows and doors New Accommodation adoption to raise funds for the to cut fuel bills and make Model to enable Service RAF Museum. military housing more personnel to buy and rent The Adopt an Artefact scheme environmentally friendly. private sector property to features more than 50 items from Families with young increase choice and make the venue’s London and Cosford children will also benefit the Forces more attractive collections. from new play areas, roads to new recruits. The pocket-sized will be resurfaced and energy Twinkletoes flew efficient street lighting will alongside Arthur help modernise sites as FUNDING PLEDGE: Whitten Brown and part of the funding. Chancellor Rishi Captain John Alcock Sunak has The Chancellor announced an on the first ever said: “Day in, day extra £200 million transatlantic flight out, our Armed to upgrade in a Vickers Vimy, in Forces make Forces family 1919. huge personal accommodation sacrifices for ● Go to: our country, rafmuseum.org.uk and it is our for more details

Royal Air Force News Friday, July 24, 2020 P7

News News bulletin Monty dons Reds suit for 7th season SEVEN UP: Wg Cdr David Montenegro and blue up and down the country at some point this year. We’ve Simon Mander tried to ensure this year’s display retains all the hallmarks of a Red FALL GUYS: RAF Falcons resume training at AEROBATIC ACE Wg Cdr David Arrows performance – precision, Brize Norton PHOTO: PAUL CROUCH Montenegro is about to start a dynamism and excitement. record-breaking seventh season “We’ve designed new with the Red Arrows. manoeuvres such as the thrilling Chute-ing stars The airman joined the team in crossbow and the beautiful rolling 2009 for three years as a display heart, which have revitalised the ease lockdown pilot. He returned after a five-year display for a new audience.” break flying in the Red 1 position Air Officer Commanding 22 THE RAF Falcons have resumed for another three years and will Group, Air Vice-Marshal Warren military parachute training at Brize now command the team for the James, granted approval qualifying Norton despite the cancellation of remainder of the 2020 season. the pilots to switch green coveralls their 2020 display season due to the The Reds are preparing to for the famous red flying suits. ongoing coronavirus pandemic. showcase their latest moves after Training for the 56th season It’s the first time the team have being granted their licence to thrill began last November and this year come together since they departed at a shortened series of public the team have performed high- the USA in March following winter events by air chiefs. profile flypasts over London to training in California. He said: “The team have done celebrate the 75th anniversary of Falcons commanding officer their absolute best to adapt and VE Day, in to acknowledge Flt Lt Chris Wilce said: “Display reach this important annual 80 years since De Gaulle’s historic training is not the only reason for milestone.” L’Appel speech, and over North our existence. Red One, Sqn Ldr Martin Pert, Yorkshire to mark Armed Forces “All team members have to will lead the nine-aircraft formation Day in June. train throughout the year to keep and coordinates training. He Formed in 1964, the Red Arrows their skill set current, so they are added: “Regardless of the reduced have completed nearly 5,000 ready for a posting to a military number of shows, all of us look displays in 57 countries including parachuting role after life as an forward to streaming red, white Russia and, more recently, China. RAF Falcon.” Crash and learn CRASH RECOVERY experts were put through their paces in a major exercise at RAF Wittering. Details of two simulated incidents involving a jet and a helicopter at the Cambridgeshire base were kept secret to make training as realistic as possible. The scenario was set up to test the Boscombe Down-based Joint Aircraft Recovery and Transportation Squadron, which retrieves crashed aircraft in the and overseas. 42 Expeditionary Support Dan Penter said: “This is the perfect JARTS personnel, moment for an exercise. WRECKING CREW: ALWAYS DELIVER: Current members of 2MT at work and, inset, the squadron in days gone by Aircraft crashes can happen above and left, carry out aircraft recovery at any time and we have to across the world be prepared to work in area to test personnel on Wittering parks MT 80th birthday bash situations that demand recovering fixed wing special measures and and rotary aircraft. PLANS TO mark the 80th and ammunition between stations New CO Sqn Ldr Dan Cook different ways of Meanwhile other anniversary of 2 Mechanical during the Battle of Britain. said: “What a week to arrive. The working.” airmen adopted Transport Squadron have been Since then it has served in most people here are dedicated and Aircraft wreckage the roles of dog- parked because of coronavirus. major UK military operations – focused, and they have a real can- was placed near walkers, agitated The unit, which delivers oxygen most recently delivering Typhoon do attitude to their work. 2MT Sqn Wittering’s Vigo land owners and supplies across the UK, was formed spares to the RAF’s Baltic Air is an amazing place to be. It is not Wood training reporters. in 1940 to ferry aircraft spares Policing Mission in Estonia. just about driving trucks.” OF SUPPORT TO OUR RAF COMMUNITY

SSAFA is proud that 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of our Personal Support & Social Work Service, providing practical and emotional support to serving RAF personnel and their families.

We understand the unique challenges of the RAF community and we are here to help you when times get tough.

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News Protector in £65m boost Cash will fund 3 aircraft and control centres DEFENCE CHIEFS have signed allowing it to operate in extreme a £65m contract to build the UK’s weather conditions. first three unmanned Protector Protector also boasts enhanced aircraft. data links and will carry the UK- The remotely piloted air system made Brimstone missile and is set to enter service by mid- Paveway IV laser-guided bombs 2024, replacing the RAF’s Reaper The contract includes three fleet, and will be able to operate in ground control stations and other Britain’s civilian airspace. associated support equipment. Announcing the contract It also includes an option to Defence Secretary Ben Wallace build 13 more aircraft and four said: “Protector will provide vast PROTECTOR: Will also operate in civilian airspace ground control stations, which will global reach, meeting the UK’s complete the current planned fleet defence and security needs for The cutting-edge aircraft, which of 16 aircraft, more than doubling decades to come, and provides can remain airborne for more than the capability currently provided by another increase to the unmanned 40 hours, will be deployed in wide- Reaper. inventory for the Armed Forces. ranging intelligence gathering, Meeting stringent Nato and UK “This aircraft will upgrade a surveillance and frontline safety certification standards, the whole range of lethal capabilities operations from its base at RAF aircraft will be cleared to operate in allowing us to control, protect and Waddington, .s civilian airspace supporting search manage the battlespace from the air The fleet will also have advanced and rescue and disaster response for hours on end.” anti-icing and lightning protection, missions. Sting in the tail as Typhoon and Hornet join Nation Day

BRITISH Typhoon and Spanish Hornet jets flew in formation over the Lithuanian capital Vilnius as part of the country’s National Statehood Day. PULL THE UDDER ONE: Cow, inset, is airlifted to safety by Puma from RAF Benson The aircraft, on Nato Air Policing missions, made a diamond formation over the Presidential Palace as the national flag was raised Puma snares and President Gitanas Nauseda led military personnel during a parade through the capital. 135 Expeditionary Air Wing cow in high commander,Wg Cdr Stu Gwinnutt, said: “It was a great honour to meet some of the people of Vilnius, who took real steaks rescue interest in our deployment. THE STEAKS were high when the in the Joint Helicopter Command.” “It was also satisfying RAF was called in for an unusual A crew from 28 Sqn at Benson FLYPAST: Hornet, top, and Typhoon, below. President Nauseda, right to see Typhoons lead rescue – saving a stranded cow. on an exercise at nearby RAF Spanish EF-18s in an The animal had got stuck at the Woodvale flew to the rescue and impressive flypast, which bottom of Crammel Linn waterfall airlifted the 500kg animal to safety. demonstrates how closely in Northumberland after escaping An RAF Benson spokesperson we’re working with our Nato through a gate left open by visitors. said: “The animal would have had partners.” The 15-year-old Galloway, to be destroyed if we were unable to Commanders of the belonging to farmer Martin Smith, lift it out of the area. RAF and Spanish Air Force was airlifted to safety by an RAF “The Fire Brigade would detachments at Siauliai Air Base Puma five days later. normally have been able to rescue joined the local mayor in a working An RAF Spadeadam it, but due to the influx of recent lunch following the relaxation of the spokesperson said: “We were asked visitors to this beauty spot all the Lithuanian coronavirus restrictions. to help rescue the cow by one of banks to the waterfall were muddy, Wg Cdr Gwinnutt and Lt/Col our tenant farmers on the military and their equipment could not grip. Jesus Gutierrez Gallego were also estate here. “A local vet sedated the cow joined by the Commander of the “The animal got access to the before she was lifted to safety.” Nato Integration Unit in Lithuania, river as visitors to the site had left Gp Capt Adam Wardrope, Col Jakob Larsen, from Denmark. a gate open. The recent rain had Benson’s Station Commander, Lithuanian academics from a made the gorge banks treacherous said: “Clearly, we don’t specialise in number of universities were also and after Cumbria Fire and lifting cows but supporting the local shown around a Typhoon fighter Rescue were unable to get her out community is valuable training for and briefed on the Nato mission. safely, we turned to our colleagues our crews.” Royal Air Force News Friday, July 24, 2020 P10

News

RAF INTERCEPTORS: Typhoons scrambled after Long-range rescue explosives alert on board for stricken Atlas civvy flight to the UK BREAKDOWN COVER: RAF engineers from the UK replace huge Atlas turbo prop engine; inset below, spec check at Mount Pleasant

Simon Mander head Gp Capt Chris Jones said: “Recovering an A400M that needs BRIZE-based ground crew flew an engine change needs expertise more than 8,000 miles to and careful engineering. repair an A400M from “Team Atlas is a the Falklands that combined effort of needed an engine RAF, Airbus and Flybe change. and the task has been A team of five a good test of joint engineers flew into organisational skills Staff Reporter A Ryanair flight from Krakow “Two Typhoon fighter aircraft Mount Pleasant airport and communication.” to Dublin was forced to land from Coningsby were launched to with tailored tooling The RAF operates A PAIR of RAF Typhoons were at Stansted after unconfirmed intercept a civilian aircraft. equipment to replace one a fleet of more than scrambled from Coningsby reports that a note was discovered “The aircraft was escorted of the aircraft’s four huge 20 of the long-range to intercept a civilian airliner in a toilet claiming there were safely to Stansted airport where it turboprop engines. transporters from Brize Norton heading to the UK following a explosives on board. landed and our aircraft returned UK Airbus support centre in Oxfordshire. security alert. An RAF spokesperson said: to base.”

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BY ST R E E IL N U G G TH Special AN D Forces Creative Media Design ADR009227 Royal Air Force News Friday, July 24, 2020 P11

News Forces farewell to Dame Vera

SPITFIRE FIGHTERS staged a there was a private ceremony. flypast tribute at the funeral of Defence Secretary Ben Wallace ‘Forces’ Sweetheart’ Dame Vera said: “Dame Vera’s inspirational Lynn. work in support of our Armed Military personnel carried her Forces will never be forgotten. coffin and played the Last Post “Her support helped to sustain during the procession from the the fortitude of British personnel village of Ditchling deployed around the world and NATIONAL TREASURE: Dame Vera Lynn was honoured by UK where she made her home, while those waiting for them to return. Forces; above, BBMF Spitfire others lined the route of her “We remember her life with fond performs a flypast in honour of cortège to the crematorium memories, and all that she gave to the singer dubbed ‘The Forces’ chapel in Brighton where our country in its time of need.” Sweetheart’ during WWII Poseidon debut

Nato adventure 2021 census to count vets in A QUESTION on service in the Armed Forces will be included in the Census for the first time. The 2021 Census will now ask whether someone has served in the UK military, following a campaign by the Royal British Legion and Poppyscotland. The decision to pose the question will provide welfare groups with valuable information to ensure they can meet the needs of serving personnel, veterans and their families, charities say. Royal British Legion director Charles Byrne said: “The decision will significantly improve our understanding of the Armed Forces community. “It will ensure charities and service providers can deliver the best service possible to them when and where it is needed most. “It will have a huge impact on Service personnel, veterans and their families well into the future, Simon Mander Officer Commanding 120 Sqn square nautical mile we remain as the outcome will allow us to Wg Cdr James Hanson said: “The box of open ocean. prepared for provide more effective care and POSEIDON SUB hunters have exercise offers my crews a great On one sortie, an operations in support to those in need.” been honing their attack skills opportunity to be tested against RAF Poseidon launched peace, crisis and Minister for Defence People over the North Atlantic in their highly professional opposition. simulated attacks within 10 conflict.” and Veterans Johnny Mercer said: first multi-national training since “I know the crews have relished minutes of taking over contact The RAF took delivery of their “Allowing veterans to identify arriving in the UK in February. the chance to show what they can do from a US Navy aircraft using its first P-8A at Kinloss Airfield themselves in the census is a key Lossiemouth-based 120 Sqn with our extremely capable aircraft.” sophisticated sensor suite. in February. Two Poseidons part in making Britain the best personnel joined ships, submarines The training focused on ships Nato Allied Maritime Command will operate out of the Scottish place in the world to be a veteran.” and aircraft from six nations during and aircraft tracking nuclear- Vice-Admiral Keith Blount said: base whilst runway works are There are an estimated 2.4 Nato exercise Dynamic Mongoose. powered submarines in a 200 x 200 “Dynamic Mongoose will ensure undertaken at Lossiemouth. million veterans in Britain. 1Selected vehicles only. Eligibility criteria applies. See ford.co.uk/militarysales for more information. Model shown is a Focus ST-3 5-Door 2.3L Ford EcoBoost 280PS with a 6-Speed Manual Petrol transmission with optional Full LED Headlamps. Fuel economy mpg (11100km): Combined 34.4. *CO2 emissions 179g/km. Figures shown are for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO2 figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. *There is a new test used for fuel consumption and CO2 figures. The CO2 figures shown, however, are based on the outgoing test cycle and will be used to calculate vehicle tax on first registration. Royal Air Force News Friday, July 24, 2020 P13

News

FAMILY AFFAIR: Harry and dad John Spanton PHOTOS: SAC SAC Harry’s LAURA BULLAS on the move Brize young gun joins dad John on first frontline tour

Meg Fairhurst and it makes me proud to see how Akrotiri Harry is developing into a movements SUPPORTING THE fight against tradesman.” terror across the is a Harry added: “The best part of the job family affair for an RAF father and son is the ever-changing work scenarios and I team of movers. love the adventure training and sport.” FS John Spanton, who The father-and-son team have joined up more than 30 had to work around Covid years ago, is working social distancing rules in the alongside rookie scorching Cyprus heat to 21-year-old SAC Harry, deliver the goods to the UK who has been posted frontline. to Akrotiri on his first Squadron Warrant Officer four-month frontline Kev Skinner paid tribute tour from Brize Norton. to the Spantons. He said: The duo are part of a “I’ve known John for more 17-strong team of movers than 30 years and it’s great to see with 1 Air Mobility Wing young Harry keeping up the family delivering kit to UK forces targeting the connection with the RAF. Daesh terror group across Iraq and Syria. “During Harry’s deployment the John, 54, said: “It’s great being able to squadron has overcome a lot of challenges watch Harry doing the job I have been in the face of the coronavirus pandemic doing for years. but the family can be justifiably proud of “I joined up at 22 because the RAF the combined contribution to the team gave me the chance to learn a trade effort.”

NEW KIT ON THE BLOCK: Fire-fighting vehicles in front of Forces families net £150 C-17 transporter at Brize Norton million funding pledge PHOTO: STEVE LYMPANY

Tracey Allen EXTRA CHILD care is to be made available to Forces families later this year as part of a £150m scheme. Breakfast clubs and after school activities to cover early starts and late finishes for military parents are expected to benefit up to 44,000 youngsters aged four to 11 years old nationally. A pilot scheme begins in September at RAF High Wycombe and Halton with others to follow a launch in January. Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said: “Service families are at the very heart of the Armed FAMILY FRIENDLY: Making life easier for Forces community and it is vital military parents; below, Johnny Mercer that we provide them with the flexibility and freedom to bring up added: “Service life is hugely their children while they serve. rewarding but it isn’t without its “I am determined to make challenges when it comes to juggling the Armed Forces a more the demands of family life. Fire-fighting kit upgrade for safety crews modern, inclusive and “Those who continue to family-friendly employer do extraordinary work on Leanne King with the latest kit to penetrate Station fire officer WO Shail to improve retention and behalf of the country must be aircraft skins and quell flames said: “The new vehicles will encourage more talented recognised and rewarded, and BRIZE NORTON fire fighters have before crews enter the cockpit and introduce new technology and women to pursue long and I’m pleased we’re continuing taken delivery of five high-spec high-reach turrets which coat the significant advancement in tactics, fulfilling careers in uniform.” to honour our commitment to tenders as part of a major safety underside of burning aircraft and techniques and procedures that will Defence People and personnel so they receive the upgrade at the Oxfordshire air escape slides with retardant foam provide an improved output to the Veterans Minister right support to care for transport station. allowing crews to operate at a safe station and begin a new chapter for Johnny Mercer loved ones.” The new vehicles are equipped distance. Air Force firefighters.” Royal Air Force News Friday, July 24, 2020 P14 Royal Air Force News Friday, July 24, 2020 P15

Feature Battle plan

Intelligence, integration K DEFENCE must harness the power of and communication key artificial intelligence and space-based technology Uto maintain the edge against to controlling battlespace adversaries in the new age of info- war, Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Mike Wigston said. Ready for launch Britain’s top airman said RAF crews can no longer expect to have unrestricted access to the combat zone and face a growing threat from a new generation of sophisticated enemy air defence systems and cyber warriors. Speaking at the Air and Space Power conference he said: “Our freedom to operate – in Iraq and of new ‘info-war’ Afghanistan for example – has been unchallenged because of control of the air; likewise, our undisturbed Future air power will rely on space reliance on space. “Our potential adversaries have watched us, and they have learnt. and artificial intelligence, says CAS Tempest: Set to Sophisticated air defence missile systems, anti-satellite weapons, replace Typhoon cyber, and potent long-range missiles are becoming more capable and proliferating to proxy states too. “We can no longer assume CARRIER: The Queen Elizabeth unchallenged access to air and space, nor can we ignore the threat of air, ballistic and cruise missile attack at home, across Nato, or overseas.” CAS: Future Combat Air System plan

We can no longer assume unchallenged access “to air and space ” Poseidon: Sub-hunter efence Secretary Ben Wallace has called on military chiefs to Dspeed up the move from traditional air power to combat the growing threat from the cyber realm. Top brass have been urged to be The people of honest with politicians in the run- up to what has been billed as the our Armed Forces biggest security shake-up since the have always been . “ The Integrated Defence our greatest asset Review has been restarted after being stopped in its tracks by the ” coronavirus pandemic in April. VIGILANT: Poseidon crew Mr Wallace has urged Air Chiefs to paint a picture of the future battlespace up until the 2050s so the government can make the ‘right decisions’ about future combat air systems. He said: “I’m not just looking F 35: Ready for ops from deck to you to keep up the excellent of the Queen Elizabeth Carrier delivery in operations, I also want you to provide me with excellent military advice. integration would be required along see; protecting the UK and Baltic airspace, according to defence experts. At the heart with its sophisticated suite of data which is expected to make its debut thousands of jobs across the UK, “Don’t try to second guess the lines of pairing the new Poseidon supporting operations in Afghanistan, of the RAF’s effort to retain the edge gathering sensors is ready to conduct in 2025. generating cutting-edge technology intentions from Head Office. aircraft with the submarine service striking terrorists in the Middle East. in battle are cloud-based information operations from the deck of the ACM Wigston added: “The next and attracting international partners. Instead, give me a true perspective. to disrupt Russian underwater “The people of our Armed Forces have systems Nexus, already undergoing trials, Queen Elizabeth Carrier. generation Royal Air Force must be “We unveiled Tempest at Tell me what the options are and activities. always been our greatest asset. and Darkstar network, designed to deliver Plans are also underway to expand able to defend the airspace around Farnborough in 2018. It was exciting outline the alternatives. But he also paid tribute to the “But we must think about what intelligence at light speed and in real time 216X Sqn’s operational trials of the UK and our allies in the face then and it is even more exciting now, “What’s already clear to me is RAF’s contribution to countering comes next. The global picture has to air, ground and sea-based crews. swarming drones to disrupt enemy of sophisticated threats that are a truly national and international that we’re no longer in the business Covid-19 by setting up helicopter changed. Threats are coming from all The RAF has also appointed its first defences from the decks of Britain’s intensifying and proliferating. The programme with the UK’s world- of relying on one fighter, or on one hubs, delivering PPE, establishing different angles.” Space Director, AVM Harv Smythe, and flagship carriers, ACM Winston replacement for Typhoon must be leading defence aerospace industry at type of aircraft that can do one airbridges and supplying medical is developing a low earth constellation revealed. capable of operating, fighting and its heart.” thing. reservists while maintaining he race for hypersonic of small satellites to give the UK’s new At the vanguard of the RAF’s shift winning in that environment. Pilot training will increasingly “You will need to defend, operations worldwide. Tperformance to dodge generation of war fighters instant access from traditional combat air power “The Future Combat Air System move into the synthetic realm under Protector: police, control and command the “During Covid-19 our adversaries enemy missiles and sophisticated to battle-winning intelligence to sophisticated intelligence-based – combinations of highly-networked the Gladiator programme, designed Combat UAV battlespace. That requires multi- didn’t have a ceasefire,” he said. BEN WALLACE: unmanned combat platforms The new Poseidon sub hunter, which platforms are the prototype Tempest piloted aircraft and remotely- to enable Typhoon pilots to train with role capabilities.” “So, you were out there stopping Defence review supported by satellites are key to entered service this year, has restored the programme to eventually replace piloted and autonomous drones AWACS crews and UK and Allied He said further service the threats that most people don’t success in the battles of the future, RAF’s maritime capability while the F-35 Typhoon and the Protector UAV, and weapons – is already generating ground forces. Royal Air Force News Friday, July 24, 2020 R'n'R 1 Win! R'n'R Announcements l P6-7 Puzzles l P8 Win top TV drama on DVD l p5

Rain man – Byrne back on the road l p5

Royal Air Force News Friday, July 24 2020 R'n'R 3 R'n'R Film review Disappearance at Clifton Hill Cert 15 – out now on digital download. On DVD August 3

SISTERS: Abby (Middleton) and Laure (Gross) LEADING ROLE: David Cronenberg impresses as eccentric town historian Walter Bell F SLOW BURN, psychological are worth keeping an eye out for. thrillers which pay a fairly They do show what Shin is aiming sizeable homage to David for and, in many cases, achieves for ICronenberg’s sci-fi horror films this, his second film. are your thing, Disappearance at Middleton is excellent as West, Clifton Hill is for you. while Cronenberg’s performance as The film, which at more than Bell is both offbeat and intriguing. We give There are probably too many two hours is overlong, is a well- would crafted tale of skeletons in closets characters drawn into the mixing and ghosts of days past, while the pot, while the lack of development ending will definitely have you in some scenes means they could going over the plot again and again. have been edited out and the film Following the death of her shortened without any detriment. mother, Abby West (Tuppence To counter that, Shin’s use of Tuppence for it slow shots, and the atmospheric Middleton, Downton Abbey, Fisherman’s Friends), returns to her being kidnapped as a youngster. some of the town’s less salubrious footage and still photographs to backdrop of an out of season hometown, Niagara Falls, to take With the help of Cronenberg, who characters. introduce characters and subplots Niagara Falls, merely adds to the over the dilapidated Rainbow Inn plays town historian and eccentric Director Albert Shin used the tied to the past adds a kitsch twisted depth of this fascinating film. motel her family used to run. Walter Bell, and her sister Laure, film’s score to add to the atmosphere aesthetic, but it does smack of Twin Review by Daniel Abrahams Abby soon finds herself drawn (Hannah Gross, Joker), West begins and guide the viewer, which, Peaks and Cronenberg’s works. back into a mystery of the One- to uncover the truth behind the although a bit dated, works OK at The homages are fine, and do not Eyed Boy who she witnessed missing boy, Alex Moulin, and the beginning. The use of old video detract from the film, in fact they 3 out of 5 roundels

TV Competition Win! Harry Hill's World of TV DVDs Dazzler Media BBC Two Alien Outbreak, Cert 15 (UK trailer: youtu.be/PSuH9XaQv-s) The Fanatic, Certificate 15 (UK trailer: youtu.be/8bjQyk0IOrg) There's a Moose on the loose CREEN LEGEND John Travolta Katherine Drake and stars in The Fanatic as you’ve never Ritchie Crane star in tense, Sseen him before – he plays Moose, sci-fi action movie Alien a celebrity obsessed fan who feels Outbreak, written and slighted by his favourite movie star at directed by award-winning an autograph convention. VFX artist and filmmaker He quickly embarks on an unhinged Neil Rowe (Robot World). quest to get a response, leading to a We have a copy of each home invasion and a very long night title on DVD up for grabs. that changes both men irreparably. For your chance to win one, This tense thriller is written and just send us the correct answer directed by Limp Bizkit frontman to this question: Fred Durst (The Education of Charlie Banks) and co-stars Devon Sawa (Final Who wrote and directed Destination) and Ana Golja (Degrassi: The Fanatic? Next Class). Harry on the box Email your answer, marked n a rural English town, two police Dazzler DVDs competition, to: ITH NO formal training the from 1963’s Barry Bucknall’s DIY officers begin their normal shift [email protected] to multi-award-winning Harry to Changing Rooms and Grand Ibut soon realise something is wrong. arrive by August 7. Sorry, but WHill will be taking the lid off a Designs; historical documentaries, With residents behaving strangely and we’re currently unable to accept different genre of television each from Kenneth Clarke’s Civilisation horrific events unfolding before their competition entries by post. week in his new show for BBC Two, to Danny Dyer’s Right Royal Family; eyes, they learn they are under attack Please remember to state Harry Hill’s World of TV. and cookery programmes, from from terrifying alien creatures and if you prefer to win a copy of The six-part series is said to be Fanny Craddock to Bake Off. must fight to defend their town and Alien Outbreak or The Fanatic not just a hilarious lesson in TV Harry said: “It’s about time community. and include your postal address. history, but also a demonstration of someone blew the whistle on how what is required to make each of the these TV shows are put together main telly genres including: soaps, and it looks like I’m the man for the from 1954’s The Grove Family job. Watching TV will never be the through to Crossroads, Coronation same again. ACTION: Street and EastEnders; medical “I predict this series of Alien dramas, from Dr Finlay’s Casebook programmes will be required Outbreak to and Casualty; police viewing for all students of TV. We’re dramas, from Dixon of Dock Green talking TV landmark… jus’ sayin’.” to Z Cars, and Line of ■ Harry Hill’s World of TV is on Duty; home improvement shows, BBC Two later this year. Royal Air Force News Friday, July 24, 2020 R'n'R 4 Royal Air Force News Friday, July 24, 2020 R'n'R 5 R'n'R Fall Win! TV The Big Event Autumn TV on 4 Competition Harlots Gangs of London (18) BBC Two Great expectations for new shows Dazzler Media (UK trailer: /frTfXFeKeN4) HANNEL 4 has revealed highlights of its autumn The dark side of the capital Beeb has schedule, including new series fronted by artist RESH FROM stunning TV CGrayson Perry and comedian Tom Faudiences, Gangs of London Allen. makes its way to Blu-ray, DVD a punt In Grayson Perry’s Big American and digital platforms from July Roadtrip the award-winning artist 27, taking viewers back for an and social commentator travels immersive journey into the hidden on ITV's across the US on a custom-built Something heart of the capital. motorbike he designed especially Created by award-winning for the journey, to explore some of filmmakers Gareth Evans and the biggest cultural and political Matt Flannery of The Raid film Harlots fault-lines in the country. franchise, the series’ stars include As America gears up for a Joe Cole (Peaky Blinders), Sope crucial presidential election, the Dirisu (Humans), Colm Meaney BROTHEL nation seems to be growing ever (Layer Cake), Michelle Fairley BIGWIGS: more divided. Grayson spends time (Game of Thrones) and Lucian Lydia 4 everyone with people from very different 4 Msamati (His Dark Materials). (Manville), walks of life, from farmers in Set in the heart of one of right, and FANNING: Margaret Wisconsin to African-American Catherine the world’s most dynamic and (Morton), businesspeople in Atlanta, to The Great multicultural cities, Gangs of left understand how Americans today London tells the story of a city NOT A HOLY JOE: There's nothing saintly about mobster Sean Wallace (Joe Cole) view issues of identity, race, money torn apart by the turbulent power and class – and what might be done struggles of the international gangs help of the Dumani family, to take largest criminal organisation in to overcome the divisions in their that control it, and the sudden his father’s place. If the situation London. country (and in our own). power vacuum that’s created when wasn’t dangerous enough, Sean’s The three-disc set includes all The documentary is due to be the head of London’s most powerful assumption of power causes ripples nine episodes with new extras and BC TWO is to air all three series most valuable commercial activity BBC bigwig Sue Deeks said: broadcast in September. crime family is assassinated. in the world of international one lucky reader could win a copy of the critically-acclaimed – sex. Inspired by the stories of real “Aided by a truly magnificent For 20 years, Finn Wallace crime. on DVD. Bperiod drama Harlots, acquired by women, it follows Margaret Wells cast, Harlots brings 18th century lso that month, Sandi Toksvig (Meaney, pictured right) was Now, the one man who To be in with a chance, simply the Beeb from ITV Studios. (Morton) and her daughters, as she London to life with enormous style, hosts a two-part series, The the most powerful criminal in might be able to help him and answer this question correctly: Samantha Morton (Fantastic struggles to reconcile her roles as wit, intelligence and humour. WriteA Offs, exploring Britain’s London. Billions of pounds become his ally is Elliot Beasts, Rillington Place, The Last mother and brothel owner. “Viewers will become staggeringly low adult literacy flowed through his Finch (Dirisu) who, up Who created Gangs of London? Panthers, Minority Report), Lesley When her business comes immersed in the gripping lives of rates. A group of adults, aged from organisation each year, but until now, has been a Manville (Mum, River, Maleficent) under attack from Lydia Quigley businesswomen Margaret Wells 22 to 66, are offered a life-changing now he’s dead and nobody lowlife chancer with Email your answer, marked and Jessica Brown Findlay (The (Manville), a rival madam with and Lydia Quigley as they make opportunity to overcome the one knows who ordered the a mysterious interest Gangs of London DVD Outcast, Downton Abbey) star in a ruthless streak, Margaret must their way in London’s grimy, thing that has always held them hit. in the Wallace family. competition, to: competitions@ the series. Liv Tyler (Gunpowder, fight back, even if it means putting decadent world.” back. The eight adults, all of whom With rivals But as the wind of rafnews.co.uk to arrive by August Lord of the Rings) joins the cast in her family at risk. Brown Findlay Harlots is written by playwright lack the basic skills necessary for everywhere, it’s up to fate blows, Elliot finds 7. Please remember to include your series two and three. stars as Charlotte, Margaret’s and screenwriter Moira Buffini many everyday situations, have the impulsive Sean himself transported full postal address with your entry. Set against the backdrop of eldest daughter and the city’s most (Jane Eyre, Tamara Drewe). different personal motivations for Wallace (Cole), with the to the inner circle of the Entrants must be over 18. Georgian London, Harlots is coveted courtesan, who begins to Series one and two will be aired wanting to improve their literacy. described as a powerful drama grapple with her position in both on BBC 2 later this year. Series three Mentored by a team of experts, offering a new take on the city’s society and her immediate family. will be broadcast at a later date. the group will face various Theatre extraordinary reading, writing and Comedy New spelling challenges along the way Jason Byrne dates Music in a quest to change their lives. Class Their efforts will culminate in an Ida Girls emotional final test held in front Stars act of an audience of family, friends and teachers as the contributors Tour's on back-Byrner endeavour to shed the shame and lift the stigma around illiteracy. in ‘Wakey’ – a city, not a town – Tom MP Arthur Garrison; and Tracy Ann OLLOWING THE closure of all stays with a local family while seeing the Oberman as Carol Carter. FUK theatres due to the ongoing Ida Girls are a n a lighter note, the much- sights and meeting some of Wakefield’s Covid-19 pandemic, comedian Jason Oloved Great Canal Journeys extraordinary characters, before he Great is a satirical, comedic Byrne has announced that his 2020 UK returns this autumn with two new putting on an end of week show to Tdrama about the rise of tour has been rescheduled for autumn voice for good intrepid explorers in the shape of celebrate everything and everyone he’s Catherine the Great from outsider next year. Details of how to exchange good friends and former Celebrity encountered. to the longest-reigning female ruler tickets will follow in the coming weeks. LASSICAL-CROSSOVER group Ida Girls have Gogglebox co-stars Sheila Hancock Along the way, he takes in one of the in Russia’s history. It’s described as a Jason said: “I’m absolutely gutted that released their new medley Stars, featuring songs from and Gyles Brandreth. With world’s biggest rhubarb crops, explores modern love story that incorporates I’ve had to reschedule my new Audience Cthe long-running musical Les Misérables, in support of a Timothy West joining the pair in Wakefield’s beautiful cathedral, visits one historical facts – occasionally. Precipitation UK tour until next year. cause close to their hearts. the first episode to show them the of the only drive-in fish and chip shops in The 10-part drama is the story “I was really looking forward to getting All proceeds from downloads of the single on iTunes ropes, the four-part show follows the world and buys a round of the city’s of an idealistic, romantic young girl back on the road and seeing you all, but will go to Help Musicians. The charity looks after the new skippers as they embark famous steak pies. ALEXANDER: Singer stars in '80s drama Boys (Elle Fanning), who arrives in Russia I’ll be back next year with all the fun. See professional musicians of all genres at all stages of their on a journey of Britain through its The station has also announced details for an arranged marriage to the you on the other side.” careers. most famous canal routes. of two new dramas for 2021. together, and soon share each other’s mercurial Emperor Peter (Nicholas The rescheduled dates now kick off The Ida Girls – Georgi Mottram, Wendy Carr, Jasmine IDA GIRLS: Les Mis Medley release in aid of Help Musicians adventures. But a new virus is on the Hoult). in Norwich on September 14, 2021, and Faulkner and Sarah Vaughan – originally created and he five-part Boys, from BAFTA rise, and soon their lives will be tested Hoping for love and sunshine, culminate in Dunfermline on November performed Stars for a fundraising concert at Leicester’s Communities all over the UK have come together n Tom Allen Goes To Town award-winner Russell T Davies, in ways they never imagined. As she finds instead a dangerous, 26. Haymarket Theatre. to raise money for the NHS and charities. Their the eponymous comedian Tstars Years And Years frontman the decade passes, and they grow depraved, backward world Expect the Irish comedian, dubbed ‘the The singers recorded their parts for the video generosity is humbling and it inspired us to give Iand presenter, who loves Olly Alexander. up in the shadow of AIDS, they’re that she resolves to change. king of live comedy’ by The Times, to invite individually during lockdown from their homes in something back. travelling around the UK It’s 1981, the start of a new decade, determined to live and love more All she has to do is kill her – or drag – people up onto the stage and Aberdeenshire, Jersey and London, and then produced “We hope that by releasing Stars in aid of Help – and as a Bromley boy and Ritchie (Alexander) Roscoe fiercely than ever. husband, beat the church, make a 'holy show of them', as they’d say in the video in-house. Musicians we can not only lift spirits but also raise it’s small town Britain (Omari Douglas) and Colin The top calibre cast also includes baffle the military and get Ireland. The video intersperses performances by Ida with funds for the charity’s invaluable work.” he particularly loves (Callum Scott Howells) begin a Keeley Hawes (Bodyguard, The the court onside. The Jason’s TV credits include: Live at the photographs of much-loved theatre venues and concert The Ida Girls, who trained at some of the world’s – champions one of new life in London. Durrells), who plays Ritchie’s cast includes Phoebe Apollo, The Royal Variety Performance, halls, provided by charity The Theatres Trust, where leading conservatoires, were Classic Brit Award those unsung places: Strangers at first, these mum Valerie; Shaun Dooley Fox, Adam Godley, The John Bishop Show, Father Figure, musicians would normally be performing. nominees in 2018. They performed their sold-out Wakefield, West young gay lads, and their playing Ritchie’s dad Clive; Gwilym Lee, Charity Ireland’s Got Talent and Wild Things. Georgi said: “Everyone is feeling the impact of show Believe at Jersey Opera House. Yorkshire. PERRY: best friend Jill (Lydia West), Neil Patrick Harris as Henry TOKSVIG: Wakefield and n Go to: jasonbyrne.ie for details of the Write Offs coronavirus in some way, including musicians. n Go to: idagirls.com for more information. Spending a week US roadtrip find themselves thrown Coltrane; Stephen Fry as Douglas Hodge. BYRNE: Covid has rained on his parade rescheduled tour dates. Royal Air Force News Friday, July 24, 2020 R'n'R 6 Royal Air Force News Friday, July 24, 2020 R'n'R 7 R'n'R R'n'R Your Announcements Your Announcements You can email photos for announcements on this page You can email photos for announcements on this page to: [email protected] to: [email protected]

Death now be held on Saturday, followed by lunch. All will September 5 from noon be made very welcome, SOUTH COAST RETREAT: at The Compleat Angler, especially new members of Princess Marina House has had to LAURIE ROBERT WO 120 Prince of Wales Road, the Association. For further Seeking crew's family shut its doors permanently A window of opportunity (Ret'd) 5032428 83, died Norwich, NR1 1NS. Ex-237 details about the lunch or the unexpectedly on July 1 in OCU members of all trades Association of RAF Women READER PAT Vinycomb downed Halifax crew will be THE BATTLE of Britain they return to school in the Peterborough City Hospital. and any era welcome. Just Officers, please contact Sue is trying to trace the unveiled at the village war Memorial Flight and The autumn. He was born on January 20, turn up and join in. For more Arnold on: 07740 865685 or descendants of her father memorial.” Battle of Britain Mini Local minister Rev Sue 1937 in Perth, Scotland. He information, please search email: suearnold474@gmail. Sqn Ldr Stanley Booker’s Along with pilot Fg Off Flight have teamed up Deacon said: “Many children is survived by his wife Helen for 237 OCU on Facebook, com. crew, whose 10 Squadron Murray, wireless operator with Scampton Church to have no concept of the Laurie, five children and email me at: 237OCU@ Halifax 111 MZ630 was WO Williams, and Pat’s raise £2,200 to involve 200 sacrifices made by previous their families. Bob worked gmail.com or contact Si THE RAF Locking shot down over St Andre father, navigator Fg Off children in an arts project generations which enable as a supplier in the RAF Roberts at 1 Manor Gardens, 119/219/404 Apprentice De L'Eure, France on June Stanley Booker, the crew about remembrance when them to live in a free and from 1962-1988 notably Carnoustie, Angus, DD7 Entries 50th Anniversary 3, 1944. were flight engineer Sgt democratic country, but this RAF Seletar 63-65, JHQ 6HY or please call: 07546 Reunion will be held on Pat said: “The aircraft John Osselton from Staines, project will help to address Rheindahlen 69-72. RAF 400085. October 23 and 24. An crashed at Marcilly, two of Surrey, rear gunner Sgt that while enabling them to Wittering 77-79, 431MU informal evening on October the crew were killed and are Terrance Gould from develop something tangible RAF Bruggen 80-83 and HQ 158 Squadron Bomber 23 will allow ex-apprentices buried in the local cemetery. Caerphilly, air gunner Sgt for their community.” Support Command RAF Command. The 158 to gather before the formal “The villagers of St Illiers Clifford Hallett from Chard, Following a talk by Sqn ARTS PROJECT: Sqn Ldr Mark Brampton where he retired Association is very active dinner on October 24. L'Eveque, near St Andre De Somerset and bomb aimer Ldr Mark Discombe, Officer Discombe, above, a sketch of the window design by artist Claire in 1988. He then worked as and we want to contact The formal event will take L'Eure, were active members Sgt Ernest ‘Snooky’ Stokes Commanding the BBMF, Williamson, below, left a civilian at RAF Church any veteran or relative of a place in the ballroom of the of the French Resistance and from Catford, London. and Ray Bainborough, the SURVIVOR: Fg Off Stanley Booker, Fenton, Finningley and veteran. We are planning Weston-super-Mare Winter many sheltered RAF and Stanley Booker, now 98, aged 22 chairman of the Lincolnshire be displayed at a VE75 for Airwork Ltd, a reunion and memorial Gardens, BS23 1AJ, for all Allied aircrew as they evaded was 22 when the Halifax Respite home closes Lancaster Association, Remembrance Service Short Brothers and SERCO. service for autumn 2020. RAF Locking 119/219/404 capture by the SS/Gestapo." crashed. It was flying from dispatched by cattle truck to and under the guidance of at Scampton Church on He finally retired from Please contact: KevB@ Entry Apprentices and wives/ She said a memorial event RAF Melbourne to Trappes Buchenwald Concentration PRINCESS MARINA House, the RAF to the coronavirus pandemic. Claire Williamson, the RAF November 8 and then, RAF Fylingdales in 1998 silenicus.com. partners. For further details to celebrate the rest of the in France following a camp. He was one of the Benevolent Fund’s care and respite centre, Mr Haynes added: “Many of our guests commemorative window hopefully, again at the RAF settling in Whittlesey near please contact Barry Cox at: crew's liberation and the successful bombing raid 168 Allied Airmen illegally is to close permanently the charity has in higher risk groups may not have felt designer, the children will Scampton Heritage Centre Peterborough. RAF Bawdsey Reunion [email protected]. role of the RAF in gaining on marshalling and railway imprisoned in Buchenwald. announced. comfortable returning to Princess Marina design and make a glazed on November 11, when all Association. Due to the their freedom from Nazi yards. “Eventually interned in Lawrie Haynes, the Fund’s chair of House at all in the near future, despite the tile each which will represent 200 children, staff, parents coronavirus pandemic we Cranwell memories occupation was originally Pat, who is currently Stalag Luft 3, Sagan, he was trustees, said: “Before Covid-19, our research safety measures in place.” their understanding of and carers will take part in have, regrettably, had to planned for VE Day 75 but editing her father’s force marched to Leukenwald told us the number of veterans and their He said: “We will be exploring alternative ‘remembrance,’ said project a remembrance service in cancel the annual reunion had to be postponed due to autobiography, said: “He was near Berlin, held hostage by partners likely to visit Princess Marina House support options for veterans in the Sussex coordinator Joe Bartrop. the 617 Squadron hangar. lunch planned for Saturday, THIS year is the centenary the Covid-19 crisis. given shelter by the local the Russians then released would decline, bringing the centre’s long- area. We have a duty to our beneficiaries and He added: “The tiles Security clearance is yet to be June 6. Those who have of the RAF College Cranwell, She added: “The plan is to resistance but was betrayed and returned to UK in May term viability to the board’s attention, though supporters to spend their donations effectively will be joined together to authorised and subject to any booked a place and paid pictured below, and it is in have a ceremony at the graves in Paris to the Gestapo and 1944.” no decisions about its future had been made. and look for ways to make the biggest impact make six framed collages; further Covid restrictions.” their fee will have their the process of collecting of Fg Off Alexander Murray experienced several brutal l Please email Pat on: Covid-19 has sadly exacerbated this issue on the welfare of our beneficiaries with those one of which will be given n Go to: scamptonchurch. money refunded. We have memories from people who and WO John Williams, interrogations, incarcerated [email protected] if and we now face funding an empty building funds now when there is a need. to each school, village pub org for more information provisionally planned the may have lived or worked then a special plaque to the in Fresnes Prison and finally you can help. which is unable to provide the vital support “We have not made this decision lightly The Dambusters Inn RAF and to donate to the next reunion for Saturday, there in any capacity. If that veterans need right now.” and we are well aware of the impact the Scampton, The Red Arrows crowdfunding campaign for June 5, 2021 and look you would like to share The centre, on England’s south coast, near closure could have on our staff and our and Scampton Church. the RAF commemorative forward to seeing our friends your stories and memories from Nazi & Nuclear Threat’ Worthing, had to shut its doors in March due regular guests.” “A selection of tiles will stained-glass window. again then. In the meantime please email: crn-sce- to record and share the we wish you all a safe and [email protected]. memories of RAF and WAAF healthy time during this uk or write to: Media and personnel who worked in the WO Robert Laurie unprecedented period. If you Communications Office, top secret bunker at RAF United have any queries please email: RAF College Cranwell, Bentley Priory, focusing on doreen.bawdseyreunion@ Sleaford, Lincolnshire, NG34 the Battle of Britain in 1940 Kingdom BY ST R E L Reunions E I N U G G TH btinternet.com or you can 8HB. and the Cold War from 1945 Special AN D call: 07513 301 723. to 1991. SINGAPORE Armed Forces The project will include a Forces Reunion. Were you seconded COASTAL Command temporary and permanent from the RAF to the SAF Officers’ Reunion, October exhibition, resources for at RAF Tengah between 10, 2020. Please contact Ray schools and family activities 1971-75? If so please Curtis, call: 01264 735349 or during school holidays. contact Peter Priscott for a email: [email protected] Volunteers are needed 50th anniversary reunion to support research, in August 2021. Email: ASSOCIATION RAF carry out oral history [email protected] or Women Officers Annual interviews and co-curate call: 01842 878554. Reunion. All RAF Women Museum appeal the temporary exhibition. Officers are invited to attend Initially these tasks can 237 OCU. Due to the the Annual Reunion Lunch be carried out remotely. coronavirus outbreak, the at the RAF Club on Saturday, BENTLEY Priory Museum Please email the Museum eighth annual 237 OCU October 10. We meet for is seeking volunteers for its at: collectionsproject@ Groundcrew Reunion will pre-lunch drinks from 11.30 project ‘Defending Britain bentleypriorymuseum.org. uk if interested. n The museum is keen How to use our service to hear from anyone who worked in the bunker, There is no charge for conventionally-worded birth, engagement, marriage, anniversary, death, in memoriam Tribute in marble or has any memories or seeking and reunion notices. For commercial small ads contact Edwin Rodrigues on: 07482 571535. photographs of it they would A MEMORIAL to the Bomber Command Pathfinder Force We cannot, under any circumstances, take announcements over the telephone. They can be sent by email to: like to share. (above), made from three tons of black marble, has been [email protected]. Please note that due to the coronavirus pandemic we are currently unable to accept notices submitted by post. sited at the National Memorial Arboretum at Alrewas in Staffordshire. Important Notice The eye-catching monument was designed by former Spitfire 10K Chf Tech John Clifford, senior curator of the Pathfinder The publishers of RAF News cannot accept responsibility for the quality, safe delivery or operation of any products advertised or Collection at RAF Wyton’s Heritage Centre, and his friend mentioned in this publication. Reasonable precautions are taken before advertisements are accepted but such acceptance does not imply any form of approval Carl Thomas, and approved by the Heritage Centre’s or recommendation. Advertisements (or other inserted material) are accepted subject to the approval of the publishers and their THE annual Spitfire 10K volunteers. current terms and conditions. The publishers will accept an advertisement or other inserted material only on the condition that organised by the RAF Mr Clifford said: “The memorial was engraved and the advertiser warrants that such advertisement does not in any way contravene the provisions of the Trade Descriptions Act. Museums in London and painted by Mark Oliver, proprietor of Fenland Stoneworks Search UKSF on MODnet All copy is subject to the approval of the publishers, who reserve the right to refuse, amend, withdraw or otherwise deal with Cosford on August 29 and Ltd in Yaxley, Peterborough, and his team. advertisements submitted to them at their absolute discretion and without explanation. [email protected] All advertisements must comply with the British Code of Advertising Practice. Mail order advertisers are required to state in 30 is now a virtual event. Go “I am in discussion with RAF Wyton’s padre, Sqn Ldr Creative Media Design ADR009227 advertisements their true surname or full company name, together with an address from which the business is managed. to: rafmuseum.org.uk for Dawn Colley, about arranging a dedication ceremony at details. some point in the future.” Royal Air Force News Friday, July 24, 2020 R'n'R 8 R'n'R

Due to the coronavirus pandemic we are currently unable Crossword to accept Crossword and Su Doku entries by post, so for the Su Doku No. 278 time being, please complete them just for fun. We will resume No. 288 Solve the crossword, then rearrange the eight sending prizes for winning entries as soon as possible letters in yellow squares to find an RAF aircraft Across Fill in all the 6. United Arab Emirates gift causes exhaustion (7) squares in 7. Bad French volunteers on island (5) the grid so 9. Bond character takes a sailor to Gulf country (5) that each row, 10. Helicopter favoured by Poseidon? (3,4) each column 12. Turbulent cities rebel against VIPs (11) and each 14. That is after passing entry to station (11) 3x3 square 18. Rugby position for Russian fighter (7) contains all 19. Colour for putting on (5) the digits 21. Granny misses point and becomes furious (5) from 1 to 9. 22. Bomber went to Royal Navy difficulty (7)

Down 1. Lettuce, say, for South African chap (5) 2. Illusory French fighter? (6) 3. See 20 Down 4. It’s used to make a sporting smash (6) 5. Airport used by Ollie’s pal (7) 8. Newspaperman in brush with romantic setting (7) 11. His cards are red and yellow (7) Solution to Su Doku No: 287 13. Young bird goes pointlessly to Heather (7) 15. Point of access for RAF aircraft (6) 16. Hornet buzzing around seat of power (6) 17. Psyched up about a heartless devilry (5) 20. And 3 Down. Ace picture (3,3)

Solution to Crossword No. 276: Across – 6. Colonel 7. Cadet 9. Bambi 10. Lockjaw 12. Storm Petrel 14. Globemaster 18. Paveway 19. Smart 21. Vista 22. Chinook Down – 1. Royal 2. Combat 3. Few 4. Packet 5. Relaxed 8. Compost 11. Tramcar 13. Albania 15. Breath 16. Ermine 17. Groom 20. The RAF word – Aircrew

ALBUM: Music Zeros Film review Declan McKenna Spy Intervention High New releases and European tour Digital download on iTunes and Apple TV from July 27 spy

JET SET: Hero's Spy romp Spy Gage Zeros fails to take off VER WONDERED why screen spies like James Bond don’t fall in love? Slick new movie Spy Intervention has Ethat as its premise, but is that enough to thrill audiences? We meet young American super spy Corey Gage – (Drew Van Acker, Titans, Pretty Little Liars) as he is attempting to capture bad guy Doyle Egan – (Max Silvestri, Big Mouth, hence the intervention bit. domestic life and sets out to Medical Police). The slick scene sees him Cue scenes of hilarity save the world. scaling rooftops guided by his own personal and drama as Gage battles The issue is that spy films Q-type character, Smuts, played by Blake both sides of his conscience, need action – they also need Anderson (Game Over Man, Workaholics). maintaining a normal life a reason for the bad guy to be During the operation he bumps into Pam, working in a cardboard bad and the good guy to want played by Poppy Delevingne of Pirate Radio factory, under the moniker to catch him. Spy Intervention ECLAN M KENNA has in some existential fear or lost his and Kingsman: The Golden Circle fame, and of Cardboard Corey, and a does not have either and as launched his new single way in some VR game. falls head over heels in love. He subsequently thrill-a-minute one as a super such falls short. It simply DDaniel, You’re Still A Child, from “Daniel is this kid who has so messes up the mission and puts down his spy. Well, not exactly. The film becomes a funny-in-places his forthcoming second album much to prove, he has so much in licence to kill, before picking up a spends the first hour softly romp. and announced a UK/European him but he’s just continually being kitchen apron. stepping through a one Standout moments for spring headline tour. led astray because the world’s Touching on films such as the joke skit, that of Gage their oddity are two dance The new album, Zeros, telling him that he’s not ‘normal’.” aforementioned Kingsman, this movie at home and work scenes. The first may be a live recorded in Nashville, is released McKenna will tour across the is a more adult version of Stormbreaker with a wife who action homage or send-up of on August 21 through Columbia UK and Europe from March 2021 and Agent Cody Banks with continually tells him the old James Bond opening Records. taking in 22 shows including dates Pink Panther-style graphics and about dinner parties title sequences, the second is The 21-year-old singer- in Cambridge, Bristol, Cardiff, soundtrack. that they never just a group dance sequence songwriter said: “You know, London, Paris, Amsterdam and Spy Intervention then sees Gage seem to have. It then in a spy film – just think about Daniel, You’re Still A Child because Berlin. take up domestic living while attempts to become that and how odd it sounds. he’s lost in the aftermath, whether ■ Go to: declanmckenna.net for his former spy colleagues try to GLAM: Corey an action film as Review by Daniel Abrahams it’s lost in the sauce, stoned, lost more information. persuade him back into the fold, and love Pam Gage grows bored of 3 out of 5 roundels 0ROYAL AIRFORCE

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By Tracey Allen Feature The magic of Merlin

UTHOR GRAHAM HOYLAND states that The engine that helped the Rolls-Royce Merlin engine ‘turned the tideA of the war during the Battle of Britain, and Britain to victory in then Merlin-engined bombers destroyed the Nazi war machine’. In his book Merlin: The Power Behind the Second World War Spitfire, Mosquito and Lancaster (published by William Collins) he tells the extraordinary story of the development of the remarkable Rolls-Royce aero engine that powered these iconic World War II fighter aircraft. Hoyland said: “The Second World War above all others was decided through air power: all the decisive campaigns were won or lost by piston- engined fighters and bombers. The winner would VISIONARY: Charles Rolls, 1905 be the side that could build the most powerful and reliable aero engines. “Eighty years ago, the distinctive roar of Derby- built Merlins was heard over the fields of southern INNOVATORS: Spitfire designer Reginald Mitchell, left, and fellow engineer Henry England during the summer of 1940 as ‘The Few’ Royce, of Rolls-Royce fought hordes of German aircraft during the Battle of Britain. Without such a powerful and reliable power unit at such a crucial time Britain would have lost the battle for the skies and the war could well have been won by the Axis powers.” He revealed: “It nearly didn’t happen. At the last minute a wealthy benefactress, Lady Lucy Houston, had to provide the funds for the Rolls- Royce ‘R’ racing engine that sired the Merlin.” In response to the economic depression of 1929, the British government refused to support the 1931 Schneider

K5054: Spitfire prototype designed by RJ Mitchell and first flown in 1936

Trophy air race, so it was only thanks to a generous gift from Lady Houston that the Supermarine S6B could afford to enter – and it won the race. The S6B was to be developed into the Spitfire and, said Hoyland, its engine helped the birth of the Rolls-Royce Merlin. Lady Houston also financed an expedition in 1933 to attempt high-altitude flights over Mount Everest, which were successful. Hoyland said: “Through her sponsorship of the Schneider Trophy and the Mount Everest flights she encouraged the development of enormously powerful aero engines, high-speed airframes and high-altitude aviation, all soon to be crucial in the approaching war on G e r m any.” He added: “Lady Lucy Houston Win the book was a visionary, as was Charles Rolls. WE HAVE copies of Merlin by Graham Both of them in their different ways Hoyland (rrp £20, hardback) to win. For saw the future.” your chance to own one, simply send He said: “Once the revolution of us the correct answer to the following the motor car was channelled into question: the evolutionary progress of his Silver Ghost he [Rolls] switched his attention Which WWII fighter aircraft were powered to aeroplanes, and he planned to build an by the Rolls-Royce aero engine? BENEFACTOR: Lady Lucy Houston aero engine. His prophecies for the future of the aeroplane were accurate, including the Email your answer, marked Merlin techniques of aerial bombing, which was the book competition, to: competitions@ eventual reason for the Merlin engine… Rolls was rafnews.co.uk to arrive by August 7. the golden boy of both motoring and aviation. Sorry, but we are currently unable to “Without Rolls the Rolls-Royce Merlin accept competition entries by post. probably would never have been built, and maybe the Battle of Britain never won.” KHAKI PILOT PIONEER MECHANICAL SWISS MADE

* HAMILTONWATCH.COM Royal Air Force News Friday, July 24, 2020 P19 Graduations Gunners go the distance Covid-safe graduation ceremony live-streamed for families

THE RAF Regiment has held the coming weeks and months in its third graduation ceremony support of the nation’s priorities.” under coronavirus social Trainees were also unable to distancing rules at Honington. take the customary break and The event was live-streamed head home during the intensive to families unable to attend in 20-week course due to lockdown person. rules. Officer Commanding Training Station Commander Gp Capt Wing, Wing Commander Matt Radnall said: “To reduce Stephen Turner, said: the risk of spreading “Occasions like this are Covid-19, this is necessarily usually marked with a muted celebration, but a ceremony though still acknowledges the this graduation is tremendous effort each deliberately a more individual has invested to sombre event, owing to onington earn the right to wear RAF Covid mitigation measures. Regiment mudguards on their “I am delighted to welcome shoulders. friends and family to share in the “Whilst our graduates have occasion virtually. not been able to celebrate with “Our newest Gunners friends and family in person, I should feel justifiably proud am very pleased that we have of their achievement and the been able to live-stream the contributions they will make in ceremony.” SOCIALLY-DISTANCED: The new Gunners line up at RAF Honington, above and inset below PHOTOS: SAC JAMES LEDGER

Prize winners l Frank Sylvester Trophy for best all-round Gunner: LAC Walker l The RAF Regt Association Trophy for Drill and Deportment: LAC Thresh l WO Ramsey Physical Development Cup: LAC Stephens l LAC Beard Recruits’ Trophy for most inspirational Gunner: LAC Stephens l SAC Luders Champion Shot Trophy: LAC Webster l Cpl Bradfield Trophy for best instructor: Cpl Ralfe TOP GUNS: The trainees on attack drills ADVANCE YOUR CAREER WITH THE OPEN UNIVERSITY

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Find out how we can help you develop your career path for civvy street visit openuniversity.co.uk/rafnews Royal Air Force News Friday, July 24, 2020 P21

Feature Space aces Challenges are out of this world for Air Force crews

THE RAF team who tracked SpaceX astronauts the Combined Space Operations Centre at right now and to know that I played a role Robert Behnken and Douglas Hurley as they Vandenburg Air Force Base, California.” in this new era of space launch technology launched from Cape Canaveral and docked with The main threat to astronauts is hugely motivating,” he said. the International Space Station still have their eyes Behnken and Hurley and the ISS “We were ready to assist where on the skies as the mission nears the halfway mark. came from a Russian Fregat rocket required and look forward to The RAF space rangers at the UK Space body which had fragmented supporting future missions.” Operations Centre at Air Command and the creating a large debris field. Wg Cdr Vaughan remote Fylingdales early warning site in Crews at RAF Fylingdales Arnall added “The UK North Yorkshire monitor thousands of military monitored and tracked the SpOC and Fylingdales played and commercial satellites orbiting the earth. launch of the Falcon 9 rocket a small but essential role in the They are also on guard against the growing and the orbit of the Crew launch. The event demonstrates threat posed by space junk to ensure the ISS is Dragon capsule as it approached how international collaborative protected from debris in low earth orbit. the International Space Station. and burden sharing makes even the Space Duty Officer Fg Off Joanna Parker said: Flt Lt Tom Berzins was Space most complex tasks achievable and “We are part of a coalition of Space Operations Duty Officer at the UK SpOC for the deliverable in a safe and efficient manner.” Centres that also include , Australia and launch: “It is a very exciting time to be in the USA. space operations “We share time-sensitive space domain awareness information through AD ASTRA: Right, Space Ops officer Fg Off Parker, above, Space X Falcon 9 prepares for launch from Cape Canaveral, inset left, Fylingdales radar installation

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Email: [email protected] Telephone: 07966 429755 Sport 5 pages of RAF Sport starts here l Wilson's way to stronger Union: P26

FOOTBALL Pierce of the action New UKAF boss puts plan into action and steels staff for challenge ahead

Daniel Abrahams HQ Air Command

AS HE passes the 150-day mark in the top football coaching post in the Services, FS Dyfan Pierce claims it’s simply business as usual. The 39-year-old replaced FS Nick de Long this March as UKAF head coach following six years in the assistant role. Pierce boasted a hugely impressive record in Service football, before going on to form part of the most successful management duo in the UK Armed Forces game. So, the same attitude has simply been applied since he took the head coach hot seat. He said: “There have been plenty of unknowns to deal with, so yes it’s been a strange start to things. We had the annual fixture versus the Irish Defence Force in May. Although disappointing, the priority was safety, so we made an early call to postpone before going into the final preparing phase. “It’s been Skype meetings and WhatsApp messages with all the staff in post, with one or two additions and alterations coming in September when we hopefully return.” Pierce has confirmed the team will be provisionally planning to play warm-up matches against the University of South Wales in Cardiff at the end of September, with IDF at HMS Temeraire, Portsmouth in October (FAI dependent). NEW MAN AT THE TOP: FS Dyfan Pierce, with Cl Daryl White, left, casts a watchful eye over the UKAF team in Holland in December last year; below, the UKAF team celebrate winning Temeraire remains the team’s base the Kentish Cup again PHOTOS: SAC Connor Tiernay ACSSU for both training and fixtures. When UKAF training does Buoyed by the latest FA missives trust and I am comfortable with the resume, Pierce has already regarding the start of grassroots lads taking responsibility for their provisionally planned two short football, which has seen clubs fitness.” training days with half squad being allowed to train, but not fully He added: “So, things are groups of 12 working together for compete, Pierce said: “September bubbling along nicely, we’re hoping shorter periods, ensuring they is being mentioned for the restart we will be back training and playing follow government guidelines of matches. We have numerous soon enough.” issued by the Football Association. lads currently training with their The trust Pierce mentioned has It is currently proposed the league clubs: Cpl Alex Woodhouse led to one appointment, that of Cpl famous old Royal Navy sports at Sporting Khalsa, Sgt Mike Daryl White to assistant coach. ground will be hosting the Kentish Atkinson – North Leigh FC, Cpl Pierce said: “He was our Cup in October, with further Dave Webb, Nantwich Town, to performance analyst for 3-4 years, confirmation if the historic name a few. We’ve been in contact who took on further coaching European competition will go with the players over the lockdown responsibilities last season. His ahead, in the next couple of months. keeping them updated and aware of outstanding contribution has been He said: “We wanted to host our intentions. a massive addition to our success the tournament’s 100th year “They’re a great group of players for the last six years. With his anniversary in 2021, but due to who understand the fitness and coaching experience, knowledge the level of lockdown the French technical requirements needed for and dedication, he is the perfect fit.” Forces imposed, they were unable when they return. n Follow UKAF football on to host so we now host for 2020.” “We base our entire ethic on @UKArmedForcesFC. Royal Air Force News Friday, July 24, 2020 P24 Follow us @rafnewssport /sportrafnews Follow us @rafnewssport /sportrafnews Royal Air Force News Friday, July 24, 2020 P25

Email: [email protected] Inside line Getting behind the face of RAF sport Telephone: 07966 429755 Sled heads get pulling to win Session sees stars battle heat during drills at Waddington FLYING START: Cpl Lewis Prentice, SAC Alex Cortes-Tankard, RAF team. We currently have three Cpl Neil Hudson and Flt Lt Harriet Thompson get sprinting; Daniel Abrahams below, push sled training HQ Air Command athletes performing at international level, it important that we utilise PUSH CAME to shove last week these athletes in a bid to resecure for the Service’s bobsledders as the Inter-Service men’s and overall they held training sessions at RAF titles.” Waddington. On the day the athletes were The association, which would split into two groups of six and normally be holding its team maintained social distancing, selection trials and testing new while all equipment was wiped and athletes at this time of year, has sanitised before and after use. had to halt all activities, so held an The day featured coaching from impromptu session instead. GB Olympian Cpl John Baines and Organiser Cpl John Stanbridge, Jamaica pilot L/Cpl Shanwayne ADD ASTRO TO MAKE TRAINING : Above, Jamaican and RAF bobsleigh star L/Cpl Shanwayne Stephens with a dummy sled; a New Zealand and RAF slider, Stephens. left, event organiser Cpl John Stanbridge shows his pulling power said: “Training during this time for Two areas athletes are able to athletes has been difficult due to practise off the bobsleigh track the closure of gyms. We have had are push starts and sprinting FOOTBALL some team members purchasing techniques. equipment and building squat racks Flt Lt Hatty Thompson, part of and benches in their back gardens the IS women’s winning team in to train and some even pushing cars March, said: “The event was a great drills, sprint training and push “It has proved to be a real hit with Jennings to be the to simulate a sled. success. It was fantastic to meet up techniques. Seeing the team for the everyone, so buoyed by that this “I recently purchased, using with friends from the Inter-Services first time since March meant the will allow us to develop the squad my Central Fund grant, a push and new athletes. morale was high and we all had a in preparation for the 2020/2021 sled to help my personal training “Cpl Stanbridge and Cpl Baines great time.” Inter-Service Championships as man for all seasons as development pilot for New did an excellent job coming up Stanbridge added: “The hope is well as to track the progress of Zealand after spending a season with a socially-distanced training that if this event is successful it is athletes throughout the off season.” POWER GAME: Flt Lt Hatty Thompson during as a brakeman last year – a perfect programme, including some something I would like to run more n Follow RAF bobsleigh on some weight pulling with L/Cpl Stephens training tool for myself and the bobsleigh specific warm-up frequently. Twitter @RAFBobsleigh for RAF Regiment

MEN IN CHARGE: Jennings (right) with his Army and Navy counterparts

Continued from page 27: Football Team. In his role as coach, he has had a lot of influence over the development of the “and a potential tour to Cyprus in 2021. So, it’s a players. really exciting time across the board.” He’s got a genuine “He has a great mixture of experience, Sqn Ldr Mark Bowden, chairman of RAF love for the game and is motivation and being an engaging coach to work Regiment Football, said: “The appointment of with; I’m sure he will continue in the same vein SET GO: Cpl Lewis Prentice, SAC Alex Cortes- Sgt Dave Jennings was an easy one to make. developing into a very in this new role.” Tankard, Cpl Neil Hudson and L/Cpl Shanwayne “Alongside Sgt Tom Morton and Sgt Jimmy “good coach Stephens perform sprint training intervals TRAINING CAMP: More sprints Humphreys, Sgt Jennings has played a vital n Follow RAF Regiment football on Twitter @ role in the re-emergence of the RAF Regiment ” RAFRegimentFC Royal Air Force News Friday, July 24, 2020 P26 Follow us @rafnewssport /sportrafnews

Sport

RUGBY UNION Union trades old for new Landmark recruitment drive aims to shape the future with more professional, winning attitude

FUTURE PAST: Main, WO Tug Wilson shows the score as the RAF men’s team defeated the Army at Aldershot in 2015 with former team captain Flt Lt Stu Philpott facing; above right, tearful players show what the historic victory meant; below, L/Cpl Dan Johnson and Cpl Alex Stanley charge down a kick during the victory over the French earlier this year PHOTOS: SBS

Daniel Abrahams Justin it’s three years. After that time, “We had to put things into order. HQ Air Command there will be a review, to support Now there is a chance for everyone, the review we are introducing and they can see a clear pathway to KPIs [Key Performance Indicators] the top posts. It builds aspiration WO TUG Wilson is driving the for the first time, to drive which and competition,” he said. most dynamic and professional direction we take at that point.” “What we ideally want is people recruitment overhaul in Service To back this Wilson has overseen to have earned their spurs and rugby union history, in a bid to the installation of an RAFRU worked their way through our build a winning future. Operations Board, to support all system, The Deputy Director of Rugby plans and ideas for the Service “We had no forwards coach for is unapologetic about the cut- game, along with a ‘trigger point’ RAF men’s, once Justin moved up, throat new way of working, which calendar running throughout the so we need that filled. All of these is guranteed to shake up the sport. year. posts need places filled underneath, He said: “We have to be more and that’s what we are setting about professional across the board. doing. Those in the top posts have to be “Cpl Bedwin Davies has gone accountable, they have to have through from head coach of the targets and they have to produce RAF Academy to the backs coach results. We are basing this all on the of the first team, so he is the perfect professional game and clubs – it is choice for that post. Other posts the only way.” currently being advertised included Without a senior men’s IS win in the RAF Academy head coach and two years, and an U23 IS win since team manager, U23s Strength and 2005, Wilson (pictured right) feels Conditioning coach and Sevens now is the perfect time to shake team manager posts. The women’s things up and look long-term. team manager has also been “Sgt Justin Coleman has just finalised.” been appointed RAFRU Wilson said: “We have FS head coach [RAF News Michelle Crolla remaining 1476]. He has come in the role for another through the system year to assist the and we know what handover to the new he is about, what he incumbent. We have has done in the past, good candidates and what he has for all of the posts to work on,” said advertised, which approach. Wilson added: “We close in recent times, but we cannot Wilson. is a great sign.” cannot have another 25-year wait allow things to drop off again, “All tenures The new for the men’s Seniors to win, which none of those involved want that to now have plan helps is what we suffered until 2015. We happen.” time limits avoid a boom won it well recently (men’s 2018, n Follow RAF rugby union on on them, for and bust women’s in 2019), and have been Twitter @RAFRugbyUnion. Follow us @rafnewssport /sportrafnews Royal Air Force News Friday, July 24, 2020 P27

Email: [email protected] Sport Telephone: 07966 429755 Union Bob crews Pierce in charges set the our time – towards pace for UKAF man future victory talks tough

l Sport P26 l Sport P24-25 l Sport P23

FOOTBALL Sgt Dave’s all the rave for Regt New assistant coach is all set to shine in debut role

NEW BALL GAME: Main, action from a RAF Regiment clash earlier this season, left, Sgt Dave Jennings sporting his RAF Regiment tie at Aldershot Military Stadium

Daniel Abrahams Sgt James Humphreys – who has game and is developing into a very could not be fulfilled. has engineered an excellent run HQ Air Command moved into a position within the good coach. He was the natural Jennings, 42, boasts a UEFA of form in the past couple of Service’s Men’s Development Side. choice for the assistant manager B coaching qualification and is season, beating teams like Icarus, A COMBAT Cup victory is the Team manager FS Tom Morton position, and I am looking forward also the RAF’s only dedicated FA Thetford Town and the Army first thing being spied by new RAF said: “Since we reformed the team, to continuing our relationship Affiliate tutor, delivers Level 1 and Infantry convincingly. Our next Regiment football team assistant Dave was there for me off the and can’t wait to get back in the 2 coaching courses for the RAF FA endeavour is the annual Combat manager Sgt Dave Jennings. pitch, he was in the background technical area. I’ll be pleased to and coaches grassroots at Cranwell Cup competition, which the The appointment of Jennings, working hard, doing a lot of the have him on my shoulder.” Junior football club and at elite level Regiment will host, between the who has been one of the team’s unfashionable stuff. He was also The Regiment team was at Lincoln City Elite development Army Infantry, Royal Marines and building blocks since its reformation continuing his own personal disbanded during the opening centre. the RAF Regiment football team, in 2016, is a natural progression coaching journey. stages of Op Telic due to service He said: “The team is in a good before a busy season of fixtures.” for its set-up, with him replacing “He’s got a genuine love for the commitments, meaning fixtures place at the moment. The manager Continued on page 24: Proud to support

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